(1) A written food plan must be developed by the provider and a child's parent or guardian, signed by all parties, and followed when accommodating a child's:

(a) Special feeding needs;

(b) Special diets;

(c) Religious or cultural preferences;

(d) Family preference; or

(e) Other needs.

(2) An early learning provider may allow or require parents or guardians to bring food for their child.

(3) If a parent or guardian provides meals for their child, an early learning provider must:

(a) Notify the parent or guardian in writing of the USDA CACFP requirements for each meal; and

(b) Supplement a child's meal that does not satisfy USDA CACFP requirements if necessary.

(4) On special occasions, such as birthdays, an early learning provider may allow parents or guardians to bring in snacks that may not satisfy the nutritional requirements for all children. The snacks provided must be limited to:

(a) Store purchased fruits and vegetables (uncut);

(b) Foods prepackaged in the original manufacturer containers; or

(c) Snacks prepared, cooked, or baked at home by parents or guardians of a child in care. Prior to serving, an early learning provider must receive written permission from each child's parent or guardian stating their child may consume food prepared, cooked, or baked by another child's parent or guardian.